Modern Library’s Top 100 Novels list is full of literary giants—but women's voices are sorely lacking, particularly Black women and other minority voices. The point of this group is to explore the universal human experiences that define us all. How can we truly do that without making space for the voices that have been overlooked, ignored, or erased?
Welcome to the FTP (F*ck the Patriarchy) List—my way of balancing the scales. While I am determined to continue to make my way through the list, I'm going to be sprinkling in novels by authors historically overlooked by gatekeepers of the literary canon. If you have novels to recommend that fit this criteria, send them my way. Thanks to member Kia for this recommendation.
"I do not weep at the world—I am too busy sharpening my oyster knife," said Zora Neale Hurston. She wasn’t one to passively accept injustice; she was too busy carving out her own space. I think she would approve of our FTP list, don't you?
Hurston’s novel is a lyrical, defiant, and deeply moving exploration of love, self-discovery, and Black womanhood in the early 20th century. It follows Janie Crawford as she navigates love, power, and independence on her own terms, making it a perfect first pick for our FTP list.
This will be a space for rich discussion, reflection, and celebration of Hurston’s artistry and impact. Whether you’re reading Their Eyes Were Watching God for the first time or returning to its pages, I invite you to join me in honoring a voice that deserved a spot on the Top 100 all along.
Let’s shake up the canon—one book at a time. 💥RSVP Today!
